Medical Techincal Officer

Unilabs; Greater London; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading diagnostic service provider in Greater London is seeking a Medical Technical Officer (MTO) for its Tissue Sciences laboratory. The role involves supporting high-quality histopathology services, performing technician duties, and ensuring compliance with health and safety standards. Ideal candidates will hold NVQ Level 3 in Science or A-levels and have previous experience in a Tissue Sciences setting. Excellent communication and organization skills are essential for this position.

Qualifications

• Essential qualification NVQ Level 3 or A-levels in Science.
• Diploma-level training is necessary.
• Experience in a Tissue Sciences laboratory as MLA or equivalent.

Responsibilities

• Support the delivery of high-quality histopathology service.
• Perform tissue embedding and microtomy procedures.
• Operate and maintain automated laboratory equipment.

Skills

Highly organised with strong attention to detail

Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office

Strong problem-solving skills

Ability to work under pressure

Education

NVQ Level 3 in Science or A-levels

Diploma-level theoretical or applied scientific training

Job description

Unilabs is one of Europe’s largest diagnostic providers, delivering high-quality laboratory, imaging and pathology services across the UK and internationally. Guided by our CARE BIG philosophy, we are committed to excellence in diagnostics and patient care.

We are recruiting a Medical Technical Officer (MTO) to join our Tissue Sciences laboratory based in Euston, London. Working under indirect supervision, the post holder will support the delivery of an efficient, accurate and high-quality histopathology service. The role involves rotating through laboratory areas to maintain competency across techniques and supporting Biomedical Scientists with pre- and post-analytical and supervised technical work.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Undertake supervised technical work under the direction of Senior or Specialist Biomedical Scientists.
• Perform tissue embedding, microtomy, manual special stains and immunocytochemistry procedures.
• Operate and maintain automated laboratory equipment, including processors and staining platforms.
• Carry out specimen dissection for Category A/transfers as required.
• Process cytology samples (gynaecological and non-gynaecological) in line with laboratory protocols.
• Prepare reagents, solutions and consumables in accordance with SOPs.
• Use Pathology IT systems and LIMS accurately, ensuring data integrity and confidentiality.
• Manage sample archiving, safe disposal of tissue and maintenance of laboratory records.
• Maintain stock levels, order consumables and ensure effective stock rotation.
• Participate in quality management systems, audits and continuous improvement activities.
• Ensure compliance with health & safety, infection control and UKAS ISO15189 standards.
• Support the training and mentoring of MLAs and MTO colleagues.
• Communicate effectively with laboratory staff to ensure high-quality service delivery.
• Participate in CPD, training programmes and departmental meetings.

Qualifications & Education

• NVQ Level 3 in Science or A-levels (essential)
• Diploma-level theoretical or applied scientific training (essential)
• IBMS Certificate of Achievement Part I or working towards a Foundation Degree (desirable)

Experience

• Previous experience in a Tissue Sciences laboratory as an MLA or equivalent
• Competency in laboratory sample processing and routine equipment maintenance
• Understanding of quality management systems and laboratory protocols
• Knowledge of health & safety requirements in a laboratory environment
• Experience in stock management
• Audit, training or mentoring experience (desirable)

Skills & Abilities

• Highly organised with strong attention to detail
• Ability to plan, prioritise and allocate work effectively
• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office and Pathology IT systems
• Reliable, flexible and able to work under pressure
• Strong problem-solving skills and self-motivation
• Ability to concentrate for extended periods
• Prepared to work with biological materials

Communication

• Clear written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team
• Strong understanding of GDPR and confidentiality requirements

Other Requirements

• Commitment to patient confidentiality
• Ability to perform light physical work
• Professional, responsible and adaptable approach